European Chemicals Agency Proposes More Substances of Very High Concern

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki, Finland, last week announced the addition of 11 more substances of very high concern (SVHCs) they intend to put on the REACH candidate list.  Chemicals on the candidate list could eventually end up on Annex IX of REACH, after which they could be banned or severely restricted from the market unless "authorized" for specific uses and only for limited periods of time while alternatives are developed.

Stakeholders have until October 14, 2010 to comment on the addition of the substances to the candidate list.  So far all of those proposed have been added, totally nearly 40 to date.  Commenters are asked to focus on hazards of the chemicals since that is the focus at this point.  If companies apply for Authorization then use patterns, exposure and risk will be considered in final decision-making.

The candidate list as it currently stands can be found on ECHA's web site.